Description
This Homemade Eggnog Recipe is a classic, creamy holiday drink perfect for festive gatherings. Made with rich egg yolks, whole milk, heavy cream, warm spices, and an optional splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy, it’s indulgent, smooth, and deliciously spiced. Easy to prepare on the stovetop and best served chilled, this traditional American beverage brings warmth and nostalgia to the Christmas season.
Ingredients
Scale
Egg Mixture
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- pinch of salt
Dairy and Spices
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and creamy, ensuring a smooth base for your eggnog.
- Heat Milk and Spices: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk, heavy cream, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently and heat the mixture until it is steaming, but do not allow it to boil.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: Slowly whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture to gently raise the temperature without curdling the eggs. Then, slowly pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly to combine.
- Cook the Eggnog Base: Continue to cook over medium-low heat, stirring often, for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Be careful not to let the mixture boil to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Add Flavor and Chill: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and the optional bourbon, rum, or brandy. Pour the eggnog into a pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to develop flavors and achieve the desired cold temperature.
- Serve: Stir the chilled eggnog well before serving. Garnish each serving with freshly grated nutmeg for an authentic holiday touch.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon, rum, or brandy.
- This eggnog will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra indulgence, top your serving with whipped cream or add a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Ensure you temper the eggs properly to avoid curdling and ensure a silky texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
